a white man"(Paton 119)! Not only the fact that his son shot a man made him upset, but the fact that the man was white infuriated him because it did not help the cause of trying to rebuild the tribe. "The dead man was well known for his interest in social problems, and for his efforts for the welfare of the non-European section of the community"(Paton 104). Ironically, the man murdered turned out to be Arthur Jarvis, he had dedicated his life to helping the natives, and his life was ended by a native, this very fact created great controversy (Tucker 395). "It is strange how we move forward in some things, and stand still in others, and go backward in yet others"(Paton 95). Arthur’s death by a native is a prime example of how things to go backward for the natives, because just as they were starting to move forward, this created another racial barrier. At this point Kumalo starts to loose his faith, especially after his son is sentenced to death for the murder. "There are times, no doubt, when God seems no more about the world"(Paton 105). Steven feels that God has turned his back on his cause and is no longer there to help guide him. "Sometimes it seems that I have no more courage"(Paton 96). Kumalo almost gives up the cause because, now, there is no point in continuing, because it seems the barriers are too great.Jarvis’ feelings are also sent through a transitional phase caused by the death of his son. The premature death of his son provokes many ideas in James’ head. "Who knows for what we live, and struggle, and die"(Paton 94)? James, too, finds it ironic that his son devoted his life to a cause, and the cause seemingly took his life. Not only does his son’s death muster hatred inside him toward natives but also fear. ", we do not know. We shall live from day to day, and put more locks on the doors, and get a fine fierce dog, and hold on to our handbags more tenaciously"(Paton 110); because the crime was...
